Baylor Hayes' dual-threat ability (376 rushing yards before sacks in 2025) will be critical against Oklahoma State's defense, especially with projected 26 mph winds limiting deep passing. Hayes' scrambling can extend plays and exploit any gaps in the Cowboys' rush lanes.

Tulsa must replace its top three rushers and receivers from 2025. Newcomer RB Trequan Jones (graded as the third-best transfer RB by PFF) will be relied upon heavily, but the lack of proven pass-catchers could stall drives against a Power 4 opponent.

Tulsa's secondary, led by All-Conference CB Elijah Green (5 INTs in 2025) and S Zach Williams (73 tackles, 2 FF), must prevent explosive plays that plagued the defense late last season. Oklahoma State's passing attack will test their discipline in windy conditions.

Playing at home (HFA 1.9) provides a boost, but 26 mph winds and rain could neutralize Tulsa's passing game and favor a ground-and-pound approach. The kicking game, with new kicker Marlon Hauck (no FGs in college), becomes a liability in adverse weather.

The loss of leading tackler Ray Coney (129 stops) to Texas A&M leaves a void in the middle. Chris Thompson Jr. returns from a broken ankle but may be rusty, making Tulsa vulnerable to Oklahoma State's run game and short-to-intermediate passes.

Both KJ Jackson and AJ Hill have limited major-college experience, and the coaching staff has not yet settled on a starter. Jackson showed better decision-making in spring, but Hill has more familiarity with Silverfield's system. This uncertainty could lead to a rotation or a late decision, affecting offensive rhythm and consistency against North Alabama.

The Razorbacks return only two interior starters (Caden Kitler, Kobe Branham) and added three transfer tackles (Kavion Broussard, Bryant Williams, Malachi Breland). With limited time together, the line's cohesion will be tested, especially in pass protection and run blocking for the committee of Braylen Russell and Sutton Smith.

While end Quincy Rhodes Jr. and linebacker Bradley Shaw are proven, the rest of the front seven is filled with transfers and freshmen. The three-down scheme relies on new faces like Hunter Osborne, David Oke, and Ja'Quavion Smith to step up immediately. North Alabama's offense could exploit early communication gaps.

Arkansas brought in six transfer cornerbacks and two new safeties, but none have significant experience together. Khmori House is a potential playmaker at Star, but the overall lack of continuity in the defensive backfield makes the unit vulnerable to big plays, especially if the pass rush doesn't get home.

Playing at home with a venue HFA of 2.1 and clear, 67°F conditions with moderate wind should benefit Arkansas. The Razorbacks avoid travel fatigue and can lean on a supportive crowd to help mask some of the early-season growing pains against an FCS opponent.